Seven curb appeal tips for fall

Written by Engel & Völkers on 20.10.2016

The crisp light and warm colours of autumn naturally bring curb appeal to your home. But while these environmental factors can go a long way towards convincing a prospective buyer they’ve found their future home, it's about more than arresting leafy scenery and an appealing fall glow.

If you’re looking to sell between September and November, consider sprucing up the exterior of your house in time for a prosperous season. Here are our seven DIY home staging and gardening tips for autumn.

1. Hire a landscaper

Landscaping your front garden is often more important than paying attention to the rear of your home when it comes to preparing it for sale. First impressions are vital, so commission a landscaping professional to create a visually pleasing outdoor space.

2. Take care of your lawn

The front lawn is one of the first things potential buyers take in as they walk towards your house, and late summer is the ideal time to look after it. Mow, aerate and reseed it if necessary to get rid of unsightly patches.

3. Pick autumnal plants

After landscaping, plant trees and floral species that thrive in autumn. Choose bright shrubs that are at their most spectacular during the season for instant curb appeal, such as purple emperors and oriental fountain grass.

If you’re keen on gardening, repot any perennial flowers you want to move to your new home. Now is also the time to rid your outdoor space of wilted plants.

4. Complete maintenance tasks

Ensure the exterior of your home is in ship-shape condition by the end of summer when the weather is still dry enough to finish any required chores. After gardening, have gutters cleared, windows washed and front-facing walls cleaned. Apply a lick of paint to doors and frames where necessary.

5. Remove yourself from the picture

Another of our tips for autumn is to clear away reminders of summer, including bikes and children’s toys that may have been left out on the lawn. A cluttered drive provides a less impressive air than a pristine one. Prune overhanging trees for a neat effect while leaving those autumn colours intact.

6. Decorate for atmosphere

Ensure the house appears as cosy as possible to enhance its curb appeal. Turn your front door into a focal point, either with a coat of paint or by hanging an autumnal wreath on it. Decorations should be subtle and seasonal: think garlands and autumn gourds to add a homely touch while helping the buyer envisage themselves living in your property.

7. Brighten up the space

Investing in outdoor lighting or fixing up your current illuminations will ensure your house looks especially appealing during evening viewings. Walking along a drive surrounded by a warm glow will trigger a positive atmosphere for prospective buyers. Alternatively, incorporate white uplighters into your flowerbeds for a modern effect.